Theme 1: Population and settlement

1.1 Population dynamics

• Describe the growth of the world’s population and associated problems and show an understanding of the causes and consequences of over-population and under-population.

• Identify and suggest reasons for contrasting patterns of population growth (or decline) as influenced by migration, birth rate and death rate, especially the impact of HIV/AIDS.

• Describe the consequences (benefits and problems) of different patterns of population growth.

• Identify and suggest reasons for different types of population structure as shown by age/sex pyramids.

• Describe the factors influencing the density and distribution of population and population migration.

1.2 Settlement

• Describe and explain the factors influencing the size,development and function of urban and rural settlements and their spheres of influence.

• Describe and give reasons for the characteristics of land-use zones of urban areas in less economically developed countries (LEDCs) and more economically developed countries (MEDCs).

• Describe the problems of urban areas in LEDCs and MEDCs, their causes and possible solutions.

• Describe the impact on the environment resulting from urbanisation and possible solutions to reduce this impact.